ISSUE
Some 2008-2010 Escape and Mariner, 2009-2010 Focus, Flex, 2010 Taurus, Fusion and Milan vehicles may experience one or both of the following concerns:

^ Poor radio reception or poor sound quality that sounds like a radio switching in and out of stereo and mono modes.

^ Bleed through of sound from the satellite radio when the audio system is in the AUX mode.

ACTION
Follow the Service Procedure steps to correct condition.

SERVICE PROCEDURE

This procedure can improve the two conditions listed but will not completely eliminate the issues. Follow the instructions carefully to determine if the concern the customer is reporting is a resolvable condition.
1. Interview the customer to determine the type of reception I sound quality issue being experienced:

a. For poor reception sound quality go to Step 2.

b. For satellite bleed through got to Step 3.

2. Poor sound quality.

a. If the customer is complaining of reception variations in satellite radio mode while driving under obstructions like bridges this is normal and should not be serviced.

b. If the customer is complaining of poor AM reception in various areas this may also be normal and follow diagnostics in Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 415-00. Do not continue with this procedure.

c. If the customer is complaining of the radio reception on FM stereo mode fading or switching from stereo to mono and back in certain geographical locations this can be improved.

(1) Replace the Audio Control Module (ACM), refer to WSM, Section 415-00 with the part listed below.

3. Satellite bleed through.

a. Select satellite radio mode and tune to a station and note the program material playing.

b. Next, select AUX mode as if you were going to use SYNC to play an IPOD or another device although you don't need these devices to verify the symptom.

c. While in AUX mode, turn the radio volume to a low or moderate level without any media plugged in.

d. At this point the radio should be muted.

(1) If you hear the satellite radio program previously selected faintly in the background replace the ACM. Refer to WSM, Section 415-00.

(2) If the customer complaint is of satellite bleed through with the volume very high this is normal and no service action should be taken.

NOTE TO ENSURE THE CUSTOMER CONCERN IS RESOLVED, IT IS VERY IMPORTANT TO DESCRIBE THE SPECIFIC SYMPTOM YOU HAVE WHEN ORDERING A NEW RADIO FROM THE RADIO REPAIR CENTER. THIS WILL MAKE SURE YOU RECEIVE A REVISED RADIO THAT WILL ADDRESS THE CONCERN.

WARRANTY STATUS: Eligible Under Provisions Of New Vehicle Limited Warranty Coverage
IMPORTANT : Warranty coverage limits/policies are not altered by a TSB. Warranty coverage limits are determined by the identified causal part.

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